Beyond beautiful, thin

Many people assume that you have to be beautiful and thin to be a model, but that isn’t necessarily true. There are several kinds of modeling jobs; not all of them require you to be drop-dead gorgeous and a size three.

Here is a brief list:

Catalog modeling: Female models should be at least 5-foot-8 inches and a size 6, while male models should be at least 6 foot tall and wear a regular size 40 sport coat. A clear complexion is essential. Catalog modeling provides regular work and ample pay, anywhere from $100 to $15,000 per day.

Children and teen modeling: Work in catalogs, fashion shows and TV commercials. Teens, or junior models as they are called, must be 12-17 and 5-foot-6 to 5-foot-8. The younger they look, the more likely junior models and children are to find work. Pay for children and junior models varies according to the job.

Commercial print modeling: Used to promote products in magazines and newspapers and on billboards and buses, commercial print models must look like everyday people. They can be any size, shape, age or race, and the more roles they can play, such as a mother, doctor or student, the more work they will be able to find. In general, commercial print models don’t make enough to live on.

Convention modeling: Demonstrate cars, appliances, cosmetics and other products at trade shows and conventions. Some even appear on game shows. They have great smiles and a knack for showing off products. Work isn’t always easy to find, however, and many convention models have other jobs.

Fit modeling: Fit models are rarely seen. Designers cut and fit garments according to their body size. Fit models receive adequate pay, and as long as they maintain their shape, they can work longer than most other models.

High fashion modeling: These models are highly visible and therefore must have certain attributes. Female models must be 5-foot-9 to 6-foot and wear a size 4 to 6, while male models must be 6-foot to to 6-foot-2 and wear a size 40 sport coat. Most have strong features and are well paid.

Runway modeling: The epitome of grace and confidence, runway models must look good in designer clothing and make blasé outfits appealing. Runway models must be at least 5-foot-9. Pay rates vary, but most runway models receive between $500 and $5,000 per show.

Specialty modeling: Special features are necessary to showcase products. They may have beautiful hands or feet, long legs, gorgeous eyes or lips, a slender neck or fantastic hair. Depending upon their features, specialty models may show off jewelry, cosmetics, hair products, shoes, hosiery and more. Pay varies according to the job.

Supermodeling: Supermodels are very well paid but rare. Only one out of every 1 million women who enter the field of modeling will become a supermodel.